THE WALL OF FACES

Cpl James Francis Chase led many squad patrols while serving with the US Marines in the Quang Nam Province of Vietnam, in 68. Charlie Co, 1st Batt, 1st Marines. He was his own point man. He insisted on that. He would always request his Navy Corpsman walk between the radio operator and the machine gunner for maximum protection.

On 17 DEC 68, he led a patrol down Booby Trap Alley. An explosive device detonated and three were injured. The CH46 came in on red smoke to evacuate the injured men. The Corpsman who was one of the wounded, assisted as best he could to get Chase on board. Having taken the brunt of the explosion, his condition deteriorated quickly on the flight to Da Nang Naval Hospital. Later that day, Cpl Chase died of his wounds.

He was one of over 58,000 who has their name on The Wall. Each one was special to someone. Chase was special to many. All the times he led his Marines and all the times he avoided tragedy will not be forgotten by the ones he saved.

Chase was awarded two Purple Hearts for his actions. He was laid to rest in his hometown in West Enfield Cemetery, Penobscot County, Maine.

Cpl James Francis Chase, USMC
24 FEB 47 – 17 DEC 68
Bangor, Maine

The events of 17 DEC haunt me to this day. I was the third one in line down that path. You always insisted that I walk between the Radio Op and the Machine Gunner for protection. I was your Corpsman, there to save you. The pilots of the 46 came in on Red smoke to fly us to safety. I saw the Docs in the Triage tent trying to save you. We all came up short. You will always be remember as a selfless leader, always willing to put your self ahead of others, and you did. I go to The Wall every year and offer you a salute and always leave a quarter, something only ten people in the world can do. Much respect, Chase. Bill Sheehan, HM2/USN, FMF

Corporal James Francis Chase, Served with the 2nd Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

Dear Cpl James Chase,
Thank you for your service as a Rifleman. It is Veterans' Day weekend. Thank you for your service. This is the month that we remember all those who have passed-on. We remember you. It is so important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

Dear CPL James Francis Chase, sir

As an American, I would like to thank you for your service and for your sacrifice made on behalf of our wonderful country. The youth of today could gain much by learning of heroes such as yourself, men and women whose courage and heart can never be questioned.

May God allow you to read this, and may He allow me to someday shake your hand when I get to Heaven to personally thank you. May he also allow my father to find you and shake your hand now to say thank you; for America, and for those who love you.

With respect, and the best salute a civilian can muster for you, Sir

Curt Carter